LA PAZ – Several Bolivian and Brazilian government ministers on Thursday began analyzing mechanisms to combat cross-border crimes including the creation of a binational intelligence and “joint command” air control entity.

Bolivian Cabinet chief Carlos Romero emphasized at a press conference that the meeting of top security officials to discuss these initiatives was designed to help the police, defense and justice sectors fight crime.

Romero said that Bolivia was suggesting the creation of a “Binational Intelligence Force” in the police sphere, a “Joint Command” airspace control mechanism in the defense area and other mechanisms to combat people trafficking.

The Brazilian delegation placed emphasis on the use of technology to be able to fulfill security requirements along the border with Bolivia.

During the meeting, the two nations evaluated the results of the work conducted by their respective police forces regarding the commitments made in late 2016 and in June 2017 to fight crime and undertake coordinated operations, respectively.

Bolivian Defense Minister Reymi Ferreira emphasized the regular nature of the binational meetings and proposed that an agreement in the area of defense be signed.

The two nations share a border stretching more than 3,400 kilometers (2,100 miles) and their aim is to improve control and coordination to prevent crime along it.

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